Boosterable IgE antibody response in mice without the use of adjuvant

A mouse model is presented giving boosterable IgE antibody responses preceding the IgG antibody responses without using adjuvants. Groups of CBA mice were injected subcutaneously with minute doses of penicilloyl bovine gammaglobulin, 3.8-94 ng daily for one or two 10-day periods. Some groups of animals were simultaneously given Bordetella pertussis bacteria intraperitoneally. The IgE antibody responses were recorded with passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in rats as well with RAST. IgG antibody responses were determined with a double antibody assay. An overall good agreement between the antibody activity in the PCA and RAST was seen, both tests showing boosterable IgE antibody responses. Some discrepancies between the two tests are discussed.